Have you ever experienced emotions that were difficult to put into words—feelings for which no language or vocabulary seemed adequate, but instead brought vivid images to mind? Or perhaps you’ve encountered a photo or artwork that naturally evoked certain memories, stirred your soul, or seemed to perfectly encapsulate your inner thoughts or desires. Art therapy is a practice that uses art as a medium to achieve therapeutic outcomes, grounded in the belief that art is a universal language. Even without speaking multiple languages, the act of viewing or creating art can convey profound messages and have a healing effect.

What is Art Therapy?

Many people’s first reaction when they hear about "art therapy" is: “I don’t know how to draw!” The truth is, you don’t need to be an exceptional artist—or even “know how to draw”—to benefit from art therapy. Art therapy emphasizes the process, not the outcome. It’s not about comparing yourself to others or creating something to display. Every individual has innate creativity, and simply picking up a pencil or brush is enough to start creating. The act of creating itself is therapeutic. Art therapists use art as a tool to help individuals explore themselves, visualizing emotions that are hard to articulate in words. Through this process, art therapy facilitates healing and self-awareness.

How is Art Therapy Different from Traditional Counselling?

Art therapists share many similarities with traditional counselors, such as conducting assessments, interventions, and setting treatment goals. However, art therapists have the added tool of art. By observing the creation process and discussing the resulting artwork, therapists can gain insights into a client’s emotional state and mental well-being. While many art-based assessment tools lack the rigorous scientific backing of questionnaires or evidence-based methods, the information derived from art-making—such as creativity, problem-solving abilities, and initiative—provides unique insights that verbal or written tools might miss. For individuals like me, who think visually, art can be a more intuitive way to communicate emotions.

What If I Don’t Enjoy Art?

Disliking art doesn’t mean art therapy isn’t for you. Art is a broad concept and doesn’t always involve traditional “creation.” Therapists work collaboratively with clients to find the most effective methods for them, which can include photography, collage, poetry, splatter painting, paper cutting, finger painting, stickers, washi tape, and more. Ultimately, art is just one of many tools in therapy. If it doesn’t resonate with you, other methods can be explored.

Art therapy meets you where you are, offering a unique and personalized path to healing and growth.